Debit and credit card expiration dates: What you need to know

Part of learning to manage your finances as a teen is understanding how debit and credit cards work. They're an everyday part of life; you use them to pay for most expenses, such as food and clothing. One thing you may notice on credit and debit cards is an expiration date. But what are credit and debit card expiration dates used for? Let's find out.

What is a debit and credit card expiration date?

All debit and credit cards have an expiration date with a month and year. It is in a 2-digit MM/YY format, such as 11/26 for November 2026. Usually, the final day you can use the card for purchases is the last day of the month. So, in our example, that would be November 30, 2026. 

Online merchants usually ask for your card's expiration date during the purchase process. It's part of their verification system and ensures the payment details are accurate.

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Where to find the expiration date on your debit card

So, where is the expiration date on a debit card? 

Most debit cards show the expiration date on the back, where the mag strip (the black stripe on your card) and the cardholder name are. Sometimes, card issuers include the phrase "Valid Thru" just before the expiration date.

Some debit and credit cards include the expiration date on the front of the card in raised numbers. It depends on the bank’s policies.

Why do debit and credit cards have expiration dates?

There are a few reasons why banks include expiration dates on their credit and debit cards. However, it has nothing to do with your account’s status. You will still have an open bank or credit card account when your card expires. 

First, your card gets a lot of use. It travels with you everywhere you go, whether it's in your jeans pocket or safely stored in your wallet. All the swiping and tapping takes its toll, accumulating usage that wears your card out. Card issuers know that, so they provide you with a refreshed card every few years or so. 

Another reason for expiration dates is to update your card's security features. Banks are always looking for ways to improve security and minimize fraud. They tinker with debit and credit cards, applying new security features such as EMV chips and contactless technology to protect consumers. 

Finally, your card's expiration date is a security feature in its own right. When you make an online or phone purchase, the vendor will request the expiration date to complete the purchase. During the verification process, your bank confirms all the details you provide, including the expiration date. They'll deny the transaction if it doesn't agree with their records. That helps prevent would-be fraudsters from stealing your card number and trying to buy things online with it.

When do debit and credit cards expire?

It depends on the card issuer. Most banks set their expiration dates between three and five years after their issue date. So, if you order a new card in 2023, it will probably expire sometime between 2025 and 2028. 

Once your debit or credit card expires, you can't use it for any purchases. If you try to, it will fail the payment verification process. If you set up any automatic payments using your card, they will be declined — so it's important to update your card information for any subscriptions you have, like Netflix or Spotify. 

Most banks will send you a new card a month or two before your card expires to the mailing address they have on file. You can call to request a new card from your bank if you don’t receive one.

Debit and credit card expirations exist for a reason

The expiration date of your debit and credit cards helps keep your accounts secure and allows banks to replace your card with the newest technology. While it may be a hassle to update your card information for automatic payments, consider it a small price to pay for protecting your accounts. 

With Greenlight’s FDIC-insured debit cards, kids and teens get access to great features, such as instant money transfers and real-time spending notifications. Plus, as a parent, you can set flexible controls and monitor your children’s spending. Explore our offerings today and shine a light on the world of money!

Greenlight is a financial technology company, not a bank. The Greenlight app facilitates banking services through Community Federal Savings Bank (CFSB), Member FDIC.